Suspension air bags

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Don Hamilton - 15 Apr 2007 18:08 GMT

I have a Firestone ride right air bag suspension on my 27' motorhome and one
side has a very slow air leak. The leak could be in the line.The bag holds
such a small volume of air slow leaks cannot be found with soapy water. What
would happen if I used a shot of ~~~Fix A Flat? The lines are plastic 1/4
inch tubing and the bag looks like inner tube type rubber. Thanks Don

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Randy G. - 16 Apr 2007 01:04 GMT

>I have a Firestone ride right air bag suspension on my 27' motorhome and one
>side has a very slow air leak. The leak could be in the line.The bag holds
>such a small volume of air slow leaks cannot be found with soapy water. What
>would happen if I used a shot of ~~~Fix A Flat? The lines are plastic 1/4
>inch tubing and the bag looks like inner tube type rubber. Thanks Don

I wouldn't. Why not just get a replacement connection kit and replace
the line and valve connections?

Alternatively, try disconnecting the line at both ends, cleaning the
threads, apply a SMALL amount of silicone lube to the threads, and
reattach. Also remove the valve core and either replace it or clean
and reinstall it. Probably find a replacement at a tire shop.

OR.... you could take the line out, attach it to a compressor, and
pressurize it for off-the-vehicle testing.
From Randy & Val
1990 30' Rexhal Airex

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Jim - 16 Apr 2007 02:28 GMT

On Sun, Apr 15, 2007, 12:08pm (EDT-1), CDHamilnospam@excite.com
(Don Hamilton) wrote:

>I have a Firestone ride right air bag
> suspension on my 27' motorhome and one
[quoted text clipped - 5 lines]
> 1/4 inch tubing and the bag looks like inner
> tube type rubber. Thanks Don

I suspect that the Fix-a-Flat products would just give you gummed up
air lines. ISTR that the tire is supposed to be driven after putting
that stuff in, to distribute it ~evenly. I can't think of a way to
simulate that for an airbag.

I'd tighten all the connections, and inspect the bags really closely for
chaffing. My AirLifts on a Toyota 4x4 pickup require at least 10 psi to
prevent chaffing. If there's a chaffed spot, pump them up and check it
again with soapy water.

Sorry I haven't got a better suggestion...

Jim, "Be careful with Mexican food. Remember, only you can prevent
colon fires."

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